The Golden State Warriors wrapped up the 2024-25 NBA regular season with a 48-34 record, entering the playoffs after advancing through the Play-In Tournament. Expectations were high for a deep postseason run, but those hopes ended in the second round with a 4-1 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
As the offseason begins, Golden State’s focus is clear: the team needs to strengthen its frontcourt, but one familiar trade target is no longer part of those plans.
Warriors Shift Focus Away From Nikola Vučević
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer via “The Stein Line” Substack, the Warriors were previously linked to Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vučević but have recently changed direction.
“The Bulls are nonetheless bound to keep coming up in connection with Kuminga until there is a resolution to his status, given that they have previously expressed interest in the athletic swingman in past trade discussions involving Alex Caruso and Zach LaVine.”
“The Warriors, though, appear to have moved away from past trade interest they previously registered in veteran Bulls center Nikola Vučević, which might have helped spark something this summer,” wrote Fischer in his report.
30 points
6-6 from deep
14 boards
5 assists
2 blocks@NikolaVucevic did it all in the @chicagobulls win 💯 pic.twitter.com/6yVxBoZBLU— NBA (@NBA) November 30, 2021
Vučević entered the NBA in 2011 as a first-round pick for the Philadelphia 76ers. He found his stride with the Orlando Magic before being traded to the Bulls in 2021. In 2023, he signed a fully guaranteed three-year, $60 million contract with Chicago, averaging $20 million per year.
Last season, Vučević averaged 18.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, while shooting 35.4 percent from three-point range. His skill set could have provided a boost to the Warriors’ frontcourt, especially with his passing ability fitting well into Golden State’s motion offense.
Additionally, Vučević’s presence could have eased the offensive load on Draymond Green, allowing Green to focus more on defense and transition play. However, with the Warriors shifting their attention elsewhere, another veteran big man is now on their radar.
Boston Celtics forward Al Horford has emerged as a potential target. Last season, Horford averaged 9.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 27.7 minutes per game. He shot 36.3 percent from three-point range in 2024-25 and has a reputation as a reliable stretch big. His pick-and-pop game could complement Stephen Curry and help space the floor for Golden State.
While Horford is an intriguing option, he is not the only player the Warriors are considering. According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, the team is actively exploring additional ways to address its frontcourt needs.
If the Warriors miss out on Al Horford, who is being pursued by several big-name teams, keep a close eye on Chris Boucher as a cost-effective option.
Dubs also still maintain interest in Gary Payton II and De’Anthony Melton.
Sit back and relax on Jonathan Kuminga updates.
— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) July 1, 2025
Although Vučević may no longer be an option, the Warriors remain active and strategic as they look to reshape their roster for another playoff run.
